Original Italian Easter Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 large egg yolk

For the filling:

• 1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1/2 pound hot Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 beaten egg for egg wash

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the cold water and egg yolk. Gradually add the egg mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling:

   • In a skillet, cook the sweet and hot Italian sausages over medium heat, breaking them apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3. Assemble the Pizza Rustica:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish.
   • Take the chilled dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a circle large enough to line the bottom and sides of the pie dish.
   • Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the greased pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides.
   • Spoon the filling mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly.

4. Finish and bake:

   • Roll out the remaining dough into a circle large enough to cover the filling. Place it over the filling and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
   • Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg wash.
   • Using a knife, make a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
   • Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy this delicious Pizza Rustica as a centerpiece for your Easter celebration! Buon Appetito!